Planning Your Visit: Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit New Orleans?

New Orleans is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. Spring and fall are especially popular for festivals and comfortable weather, while summer brings fewer crowds and attractive hotel rates. Winter offers holiday celebrations, football, and Mardi Gras season. Visit our Weather Guide to learn what to expect during your stay.

How many days should I stay?

Most first-time visitors spend three to four days exploring New Orleans, although even a weekend offers plenty to see and do. If you’re staying longer, consider one of our suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your visit.

Is New Orleans family friendly?

Absolutely. New Orleans offers wonderful experiences for families of all ages. From City Park, the Louisiana Children’s Museum, Audubon Zoo and Aquarium, streetcars, riverboats, swamp tours, and festivals to family-friendly restaurants and historic neighborhoods, there’s plenty to enjoy together. Many first-time visitors are surprised to discover how much New Orleans has to offer beyond the nightlife often shown on television. Visit our Family Guide for more ideas and recommendations.

What should I pack?

Lightweight clothing for much of the year, comfortable walking shoes, and layers during winter months. Don’t forget rain protection—our weather can change quickly.

It’s my first time in New Orleans. What should I do?

Check out list of New Orleans Attractions to get you started. These are our suggestions, but they are just the tip of the iceberg. There is so much to see and do, so talk to a local once you get here, get a few more ideas from him or her, then get out and go exploring.

What’s happening in New Orleans this weekend?

Check out our events calendar for an over view of all of the events through out the year. Then check out our blog for more updates. We’re always posting about upcoming events and things to do.

Why do they call New Orleans the Big Easy?

You’ll find a lot of different opinions on the origin of the nickname. Wikipedia lists references to musicians’ ease in finding work in the early 20th century, a nickname during the Prohibition, and a name used by a local columnist in reference to housing prices.

One thing is for sure: New Orleans goes at a slow, relaxed pace and a laid back attitude about life. We’re all about enjoying the experience.

Where in New Orleans is jazz performed?

The real question should be where isn’t it performed. It’s played every day from brunch at restaurants to late at night in the music venues around the street. You may even see a brass band performing on the corner or marching in one of our second line parades. For a full list of venues and more history about New Orleans jazz, check out our Music section. A few of our favorites are below. 

1. Preservation Hall – Anyone visiting who wants to hear New Orleans jazz has to go there! Best of all, it is a family-friendly venue; since they do not serve alcohol, visitors of all ages are welcome. Located in the French Quarter on St. Peter Street, Preservation Hall show time is at 8 p.m., Thursdays-Mondays. 

2. Palm Court Jazz Café is another great place to hear traditional jazz. Show time is at 8 p.m. every night except for Mondays and Tuesdays. Must be 21 to be in the bar area, but the restaurant area is family-friendly.

3. Restaurants that also offer traditional jazz: The Court of Two Sisters has a daily jazz brunch, and the Steamboat Natchez offers lunch and dinner jazz cruises.

4. On almost any weekend afternoon, you can walk around the French Quarter and hear street musicians along Royal Street and on Chartres Street in front of the St. Louis Cathedral. Traditionally, you can also hear some great music outside the gazebo in the French Market area on the corner of Decatur and Ursuline Streets.

Where do I park?

Like any city, parking can be a little tricky. There’s street parking, some free and some have meters. You have to pay the meters Monday through Saturday, between 8 am and 6 pm. If you’re staying at a hotel, many have on site parking. There’s also parking garages scattered through out the French Quarter and Central Business District. See Parking in New Orleans for lots more tips about parking in the city.

Where should I stay?

Choosing where to stay depends on the type of trip you’re planning. First-time visitors often enjoy the French Quarter, while others prefer the quieter atmosphere of nearby historic neighborhoods or convenient locations near the Garden District or Convention Center. Visit our Hotels Guide to explore the accommodations we confidently recommend throughout the New Orleans area. 

What transportation options are available?

New Orleans has been named one of the most walkable cities in America but there are lots of options for getting around if you didn’t come by car. There’s our famous streetcar line, of course, buses, pedicabs and cabs and ride shares are always options. Learn more

What should I do on my first visit?

If this is your first visit, start with our Things to Do guide, where you’ll find many of the city’s most popular attractions, tours, and experiences. We have also created suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your time in New Orleans.

What events are happening during my visit?

Check out our Festivals & Events section for annual celebrations taking place throughout the year. Then visit our blog for current events, performances, concerts, and seasonal happenings during your stay.

Where can I hear authentic jazz? 

Authentic jazz can be found throughout New Orleans, from historic clubs in the French Quarter to neighborhood music venues and festivals. Visit our Jazz & Live Music Guide for our favorite places to experience New Orleans music

What is the legal drinking age in New Orleans? 

The legal drinking age in Louisiana is 21. Visitors should carry a valid photo ID, as many restaurants, bars, and music venues request identification before serving alcohol.

Is New Orleans safe? 

Millions of visitors enjoy New Orleans every year. Like any major city, staying aware of your surroundings, especially at night, is important. We recommend remaining in well-traveled areas, using reputable transportation when needed, and following the same common-sense precautions you would in any popular tourist destination.